Influencer Faces Legal Action After Flatulence Prank on International Flight
Colombian social media influencer Yeferson Cossio, who boasts over 12.5 million followers on Instagram, has been banned from Avianca airlines and is now facing potential legal action following a disruptive prank on an international flight. The incident occurred earlier this month on a journey from Bogotá, Colombia, to Madrid, Spain, where Cossio allegedly used a device to produce realistic flatulence sounds and an unpleasant odour.
Airline Takes Firm Stance Against Disruptive Behaviour
Avianca has issued a statement confirming its intention to pursue legal measures against Cossio, citing a violation of section 8.6 of their terms and conditions, which addresses conduct affecting safety, comfort, order, and discipline on aircraft. The prank took place on March 11 while the plane was flying over the Atlantic Ocean, a critical phase of the flight where emergency landings were not feasible due to the distance from the nearest airport.
The airline emphasised that in a pressurised, closed environment with recirculated air, such actions pose a direct risk to passenger well-being. According to reports, Cossio was observed activating the machine deliberately to provoke reactions from fellow travellers, with one female passenger reportedly deeply offended by the stunt.
Safety Concerns and Previous Controversies
Avianca stressed that it categorically rejects any behaviour jeopardising operational safety or compromising the onboard experience for customers and crew. As of now, Cossio has not publicly commented on the airline's announcement of legal action. This incident adds to the influencer's history of media attention, including a 2023 leg-lengthening surgery he described as excruciating and expensive, which increased his height from 5'8" to 6'7".
Following that surgery, Cossio relied on crutches and a wheelchair for over a year but has since resumed his luxury lifestyle. He cited a past leg injury as motivation for the procedure. The current flight prank, however, has drawn serious repercussions, highlighting the growing scrutiny of influencer conduct in public spaces.
